Category World

CNN

Air pollution exceeded WHO guidelines in 97% of cities globally in 2021, with India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh among the worst. Scandinavian countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, and the UK had better air quality. US air pollution increased, mainly due to fossil fuels, wildfires, and transportation. China saw improved air quality, while the Amazon Rainforest emitted more CO2 than absorbed. The report highlights the urgent need for global action to reduce air pollution and combat climate change.

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The New York Times

Aleksandr, a Russian soldier, had minimal training before being deployed to Ukraine in 2023. He lost his leg in combat and is struggling to adjust to life with a prosthetic. Returning veterans face challenges reintegrating into society, with both physical and emotional needs. Families must now care for these veterans who have returned from war.

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CNN

Lake Powell, the second-largest US reservoir, has lost 7% of storage capacity since 1963 due to drought and sediment buildup. Water levels are at 25%, impacting water supply for millions in the West. Concerns grow over water shortages and hydropower generation. The Colorado River system faces challenges from drought and climate change. Assistant Secretary Trujillo emphasizes the need for scientific data to plan for the future.

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The New York Times

The United States accuses Sudanese paramilitary group of genocide in Darfur conflict. Secretary of State Blinken singles out Rapid Support Forces for ethnically targeted violence. Treasury Department imposes sanctions on RSF leader and UAE companies for trading weapons and gold. Blinken condemns systematic murders, rapes, and brutal violence against civilians.

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The New York Times

Rescue workers in Tibet search for survivors after a deadly magnitude 7.1 earthquake near Mount Everest. 126 dead, 188 injured. Quake struck Dingri County at 9 a.m., causing significant damage. China’s deadliest quake since 2023. Over 1,000 houses damaged.

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CNN

Many big-box stores and shopping malls in the US are turning to solar power to reduce energy costs and emissions. Retail giants like Walmart and Target have vast rooftop and parking lot space that can be utilized for solar panels. Advocates emphasize the economic and environmental benefits of this clean energy transition, urging more companies to invest in rooftop solar despite existing roadblocks.

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NPR

A digital archive in the Netherlands has published the names of 400,000 suspected Nazi collaborators, shedding new light on Dutch collaboration during WWII. The project, funded by the government, aims to make historical records more accessible. The release has personal and national implications, prompting discussions on collaboration and resistance during the Holocaust. Holocaust education is crucial as the number of survivors dwindles and misinformation about the Holocaust persists.

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NPR

The Biden administration accuses Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces of committing genocide in a civil war, leading to sanctions on the group’s leader and affiliated companies. The conflict, ongoing for nearly two years, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and a humanitarian crisis. The RSF is accused of targeting civilians based on ethnicity, with reports of brutal violence. UAE companies linked to the RSF leader also face sanctions.

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NBC News

President-elect Trump’s desire for Canada to join the U.S. is not a new concept, dating back to President Jefferson in 1812. Despite Trump’s claims of Canadian support, Prime Minister Trudeau firmly rejects the idea. Polls show Canadians favoring VP Harris over Trump, with historically low opinions of the U.S. during his presidency. Annexation movements in Canada lack public support, highlighting the complexities of Trump’s vision.

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The New York Times

At a gala dinner post-South Africa’s contentious election, singer Thandiswa Mazwai urged politicians to prioritize the people and their responsibilities. She criticized the African National Congress for corruption and mismanagement. Mazwai’s songs at the event called out political malpractice, demanding accountability from leaders.

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